HOME IMPROVEMENT: Upgrades that boost curb appeal and home value in one shot

(StatePoint) Giving your home’s exterior a fresh new look could also increase its value, if you choose your upgrades wisely. To get a great return on your investment, it’s all about picking the right projects.

Here are three ideas to boost your home’s curb appeal while investing wisely in what is likely your largest asset.

Siding

Siding replacement offers a great return on investment. In fact, you could recover over 80 percent of the cost, according to 2015 figures from Remodeling.com, which compares the cost of common home improvement projects with the value those projects retain at resale.

Want to add architectural interest to the outside of your home? Consider replacing your windows with stylish, well-crafted options that complement the style of your house.

Replacing your home’s windows is also a good financial expenditure — recouping nearly 75 percent of the cost, according to the same Remodeling.com study. And it’s no wonder; new window designs provide innovative features, such as low maintenance, durability, simple operation and resistance to peeling, cracking and warping.

In addition to improving the look of your exterior, replacement windows help save money on your utility bills. For example, Window World offers windows backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal for seven consecutive years, and glass packages that are ENERGY STAR qualified with features like Low-E Glass. This element intelligently blocks heat gain from the sun’s rays in warm months, but allows for shorter solar rays into the house during the cold months — a component future buyers will likely appreciate!

Don’t let a beautiful home be overshadowed by a dreary yard. Smart landscaping makes a great first impression, adding beauty and value to your home. Take into consideration the size, shape and color of your house. For year-round appeal, also think about the local climate. If you don’t have a green thumb or an eye for design, a landscaping contractor can help you plan and execute this worthwhile project.

Make upgrades to your home’s exterior wisely. Investigate options that will boost curb appeal, improve your lifestyle and offer a return on investment down the line.

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